EXCEPTIONAL ANTIQUE AUSTRIAN SILVER-GILT, ENAMEL AND LAPIS LAZULI CLOCK SET
$4,200.00
Most likely gifted to the Imperial Russian family, the clock set is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and its design celebrates many cultures and styles.
This outstanding and very important three-piece clock set is an extraordinary example of late 19th century Austrian craftsmanship. The very large design is inspired by numerous cultures, such as Chinese, Turkish and Hungarian, creating an elegant conglomeration of styles and designs.
The clock is of a tiered pagoda shape, a clear Chinese influence in its design. It is surmounted by a silver-gilt and enamel eagle depicted in mid-flight standing on a lapis lazuli ball. The animal is most likely a reference to Turul, a mythological bird of prey which is a national symbol of Hungarians. The eagle is also popular in Turkish traditions.
Below the eagle, in a canopy raised on four vibrant lapis lazuli pillars, hangs a pair of silver gilt bells which are connected to the clock mechanism below. The bells are masterfully carved in acanthus leaf shapes and other foliate motifs, the artist most likely gaining inspiration from the works of classical Greece